Understanding Contemporary Art

Contemporary Art is as dynamic as it is complex. As Art Basel and Hong Kong’s Art Month approach in March, art lovers will have the chance to explore cutting-edge works. But this course dives even deeper into the theories, movements, and cultural forces that shaped the art we see today. 

Rather than following a strict historical timeline, this course invites students to consider through thematic lenses how ideas, forms, materials, process, and purposes all contributed to contemporary art. You will engage with diverse art movements, from Abstract Expressionism and Pop Art to Process Art, Performance, and New Media. We will also delve into topics such as consumerism and the tension between public and private space, providing fresh perspectives on how these forces continue to shape artistic expression. 

With a focus on modern and contemporary trends from the 1960s to today, the spotlight is on New Asia Arts. From the post-1989 era in China to contemporary critiques of post-colonialism, the course provides a platform for understanding how Asian art has evolved in response to political, social, and cultural challenges.  

For anyone curious about the ideas behind the art featured at Art Basel, this course is an exceptional opportunity to critically engage with the concepts that have shaped contemporary art globally and locally. Broaden your perspective and deepen your appreciation just in time for March’s art-filled calendar! 

Students will: 

• Reflect on the basic history and theory of concepts in contemporary art 

• Gain more extensive knowledge of art forms in contemporary art history, particularly in Asia 

• Evaluate sources and ideas critically and make informed decisions about their art creation 

• Apply sophisticated techniques of observation and visual analysis 

• Enhance individual awareness of local cultural context  

• Adhere to standards of professional practice and ethos